Program Overview & Degree Programs
Small Classes. No Tests. Big Ideas.
Explore Our Programs
At the Hutchins School of Liberal Studies, students come to us with different interests and educational goals.
Some want to study a variety of subjects rather than focus on one discipline. Others are preparing to become elementary school teachers or are looking for a different way to complete their General Education requirements.
We also offer degree completion programs for transfer students and adults returning to college.
Across our programs, the Hutchins approach emphasizes small classes, discussion, writing, and learning from different perspectives.
Below is an overview of our programs and where to find more information.
Interdisciplinary Studies Major
The Interdisciplinary Studies Major allows students to bring together subjects that interest them while earning a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies.
Students work with Hutchins faculty to develop an individualized Area of Emphasis. For example, an academic plan might connect environmental studies with public policy or psychology with media and communication.
The major requires 40 units of coursework, including an individualized study plan developed with faculty guidance.
Explore the Interdisciplinary Studies Major
Subject Matter Preparation (Pre-Credential) Plan
Preparing for Elementary Education
Students interested in becoming elementary school teachers can complete the Subject Matter Preparation Plan as part of their Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies.
The program includes coursework in mathematics, science, history, literature, and the arts, along with classroom observations and fieldwork in elementary school settings.
Students who complete the approved subject matter preparation requirements may qualify for a waiver of the CSET Multiple Subjects examinations.
Please note: This plan does not award a teaching credential. Students must complete an approved credential program and meet California's credentialing requirements before becoming credentialed teachers.
Explore the Pre-Credential Plan and Requirements
Blended Program: BA + Multiple Subject Teaching Credential
The Hutchins Blended Program is an accelerated option for students who want to become elementary school teachers.
Students complete approved Multiple Subject Teaching Credential coursework while working toward their Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies, rather than waiting until after graduation to begin professional teacher preparation.
The program offers two recommended completion pathways:
- First-time first-year students: As little as four years.
- Eligible transfer students: Approximately two and a half years.
Because the program combines undergraduate and credential coursework, students should work closely with the Blended Program Advisor to plan their classes.
Actual completion times depend on previous coursework, course availability, and meeting all program requirements.
View Blended Program Requirements and Course Plans
Hutchins Lower Division General Education
General Education in Small Seminars
Hutchins General Education is open to all Sonoma State University students, regardless of major.
Students complete three interdisciplinary courses over three semesters, earning 28 units that fulfill multiple General Education requirements.
Classes generally have approximately 17–20 students. Rather than relying on traditional exams, Hutchins seminars use writing assignments, projects, presentations, and class discussions.
Students move through a connected course sequence, giving them opportunities to get to know their professors and classmates during their first two years at Sonoma State.
Explore Hutchins General Education Courses
Hutchins Integrative Studies Minor
The 20-unit Integrative Studies Minor is available to Sonoma State students who want to add interdisciplinary coursework to their major.
Students can take courses that bring together subjects such as history, psychology, science, literature, and philosophy.
Some courses may also satisfy General Education or Seawolf Studies requirements, depending on a student's catalog year and degree requirements.
If you're interested in adding the minor, a Hutchins advisor can help you review the requirements and see how the courses would fit into your graduation plan.
View Integrative Studies Minor Requirements
Liberal Studies Degree Completion Programs
Returning to College or Transferring to Sonoma State?
Hutchins offers two degree completion options for eligible transfer students who have already completed college coursework.
Both programs lead to a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies from Sonoma State University, but they offer different learning formats.
Liberal Studies–Ukiah
The Liberal Studies–Ukiah Degree Completion Program serves eligible transfer students living in Mendocino County or Lake County.
Students complete their Liberal Studies coursework through classes offered at Mendocino College in Ukiah.
The program includes in-person and hybrid courses, with evening and weekend options that may help students balance school with work and other responsibilities.
Students must meet Sonoma State's transfer admission requirements and the additional requirements for the Ukiah program.
Explore Liberal Studies–Ukiah and Admission Information
Liberal Studies Online
The Liberal Studies Online Degree Completion Program allows eligible transfer students to finish their bachelor's degrees entirely online.
Sonoma State offers two online pathways:
SSU Stateside follows a structured course sequence with standard CSU tuition and a cohort-based learning option.
Extended Education offers flexible course loads, per-unit tuition, and additional support for adult learners.
Both pathways lead to the same Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies. Students should compare tuition, scheduling, and admission requirements before choosing a pathway.
Compare Online Degree Completion Pathways and Tuition
Questions About Our Programs?
If you're considering Hutchins and have questions about which program to choose, please contact an academic advisor.
Our advisors can help you understand program requirements, discuss your previous coursework, and plan your classes.
Find Your Hutchins Academic Advisor
If you're new to Sonoma State or returning after time away, we encourage you to review the admission requirements for the program you're interested in before applying.